A Bermudian AME bishop was recently elevated to a top position on the World Methodist Council.

The Rt. Rev. Donald George Kennieth Ming, Presiding Bishop of the Sixth Episcopal District of the AME Church for the state of Georgia was recently elected one of the eight Presidents of the Council at the World Methodist Conference.

The World Methodist Council, a self-governing body, advises and administers member churches. Methodist and United churches from around the world also hold membership on the council. The AME Church constitutes the second largest denomination belonging to the Council.

Rev. Trevor Woolridge of Mount Zion AME Church said Bishop Ming would bring a wealth of experience and compassion to his new post.

"From very humble beginnings in Devonshire, Bermuda to being one of the eight presidents of the World Methodist Council,'' Rev. Woolridge said, "Bermuda, indeed, can be proud of this son of the soil as he takes his place on the world stage in offering and giving strong spiritual leadership.'' The General Secretary of the World Methodist Council, Dr. Joe Hale, said: "Coming from the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Bishop Ming's election as one of the world presidents is important, not only because he has so forcefully and persuasively led and represented the AME Church with distinction, but for the extraordinary personal contribution he has made over the years to this organisation.'' Dr. Hale added that Council members had enormous respect and esteem for Bishop Ming.

Bishop Ming was elected as the 97th Bishop of the AME Church in 1976. He has served as the Presiding Prelate for the 15th (South Africa), 16th (Caribbean, England, South America), eighth (Mississippi and Louisiana) and the sixth (Georgia) districts of the AME Church.

Bishop Donald Ming